EL,
BG won't bid because they know ACCC will knock them back. ACCC rejected Santos move on QGC. AOE have more acrerage than STO and combined that with BG owning QGC+SHG+PES, pretty much eliminates any chance of a bid passing. Doesn't stop them striking a supply deal though. STO or ORG could bid considering they sold off 40-50% of assets. They also have the advantage of offering scrip.
rb